2010 Fisker Karma, Bonus Convertible Concept

by KBB.com Editors | January 12, 2009 9:32 AM

Renowned designer Henrik Fisker doubled down in Detroit, showing both the first production version of his Karma luxury plug-in sedan and a very feasible retractable hardtop concept, the Karma S. Both of these "eco-chic" stunners share the same aluminum space frame and proprietary Q-DRIVE powertrain that uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter GM Ecotec inline-four engine and a Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies controller to charge its centrally mounted Lithium-ion battery pack. That, in turn, powers two electric motors that generate up to 408 horsepower. Able to travel 50 miles on a single charge and hit 95 mph in its pure-EV "stealth" mode, the rear-drive Karma can sprint from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds and top out at 125 mph when switched into its unrestricted "sport" setting. While the Karma S remains a wish-list entry for the moment, the $87,900 Karma four-door goes on sale in the fall.